What does it take to care for the gentle giants of the wild? You are invited to (literally) step into the world of Brighton Bhunu, a dedicated Wild is Life elephant carer at Panda Masuie Forest, and experience a day filled with purpose, joy, and unforgettable moments.
From early morning greetings with playful calves to guiding huge elephants through the bush and sharing moments of connection with the team and the elephants, every hour reveals the heart and soul of this remarkable work.
Dive into this inspiring story and discover the magic of a day spent caring for elephants - a life devoted to their journey back to the wild.
A Day in the Life of an Elephant Carer
5:00 AM: A new day begins
As the sun rises gently over the Panda Masuie Forest, Brighton Bhunu, a senior elephant carer, starts his day. For Brighton, this is more than a job; it’s a calling. By 5:00 AM, he’s up, preparing for another day with his magnificent companions “the elephants”. After a quick breakfast, he makes the 10-minute walk to the boma, the central hub for the elephants.
5:30 AM: Morning greetings at the Boma
The morning begins with cheerful greetings from the elephants. Baby Summer, ever the naughty one, has already sneaked out and is happily munching on Lucerne from a wheelbarrow. Brighton joins the other carers who stayed overnight at the boma. Together, they clean the stables, exchanging updates on the elephants' nighttime activities. These moments set the tone for the day as the team plans their tasks and assigns roles.
6:30 AM: Health checks and preparations
After cleaning, Brighton turns his attention to the elephants under treatment. Checking their health and administering necessary care is critical to the morning routine. These moments of care deepen the bond between Brighton and the elephants. “There’s a special magic in the bond between a handler and their elephants,” he reflects. “It’s built on trust, care, and love.”
7:30 AM: Morning Meetings and Coordination
At 7:30 AM, Brighton participates in the morning meetings alongside the workshop team. These meetings are crucial for aligning daily plans and activities. The team coordinates closely with the Rangers to ensure the safety and well-being of the elephants, addressing any immediate concerns. Key agenda items include confirming the availability of water and other essential resources needed for daily operations. This collaborative effort ensures a smooth workflow and upholds the highest standards of care and efficiency throughout the day.
8:00 AM: Milk time for Maggie
By 8:00 AM, the team regroups at the camp’s back pond to prepare a special milk formula for Maggie, a recently rescued calf. Feeding Maggie is a delicate and essential task; her survival depends on this nourishment. Once Maggie is cared for, the team heads into the bush to guide the elephants and familiarize them with their natural habitat.
10:00 AM: Into the Wild
Guiding the elephants into the bush is both challenging and rewarding. Each elephant has its quirks and personality, and Brighton delights in observing their intelligence and grace. The team works closely together, sharing stories and laughter. Emmanuel, one of the more talkative carers, ensures there’s never a dull moment.
12:30 PM: Lunch Break and Bonding
Around midday, the team takes a break. It’s a time for the handlers to relax, share a meal, and enjoy each other’s company. The elephants, too, rest in the shade, munching on foliage. These quiet moments underscore the harmony between the carers and their charges.
2:00 PM: Bath Time
A highlight of the day is leading the elephants to the pond, where they can bathe and drink water after spending hours under the intense heat of the sun. Watching them splash and play in the water fills Brighton’s heart with joy. Moyo, one of Brighton’s favorites, always comes by to check on him, rumbling a gentle greeting. “It feels like their way of saying thank you,” Brighton says with a smile.
3:30 PM: Afternoon Adventures
As the afternoon unfolds, the carers continue to guide the elephants through the bush, helping them build the skills they’ll need to thrive in the wild. The team remains vigilant, always attuned to the elephants’ needs and emotions.
4:30 PM: Evening Routine
The team returns to the boma as the sun dips below the horizon. The elephants are fed and settle into their stables for the night. The forest begins its evening symphony, a soothing backdrop as Brighton reflects on the day.
6:00 PM: A Quiet Joy
Brighton’s workday winds down. Watching the elephants relax, knowing they’re safe and cared for, fills him with deep, quiet joy. “Being an elephant carer isn’t just a job; it’s a life filled with meaning, laughter, and love. Every day brings its rewards a shared moment, a playful nudge, or simply the honor of being close to these magnificent beings.”
A Life of Purpose
This is the life of an elephant carer: a story of joy, devotion, and connection. For Brighton Bhunu, each day reaffirms his commitment to these gentle giants and their journey back to the wild.
A huge thank you to
Mupanwha, Technical Office and Content Creator from Panda Masuie for compiling this beautiful post.Did you love this Substack? Feel free to leave your questions and comments for Brighton or the Team and they will respond to you!
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